How is the speed difference in camera performance? Is it really noticeable? I've seen reviews that go back and forth.
And what about battery life? There's been nothing but praise for the 1520's battery, but I've never had difficulty getting through a full day with my 1020, even when taking some pictures here and there.
Thanks in advance.
The camera speed different is absolutely noticeable. More ram + faster processor + smaller size picture = much faster picture taking. I still wouldn't say it's fast at taking pictures, but it is better than the 1020 as far as speed. (obviously not picture quality)
Battery life a HUGE difference. I can't stress this enough. In fact, it's one of the main reasons I've switched back to the 1520 so many times. If you're ok with your 1020 charge, you're going to be aroused by the 1520's battery. I can go well into the next day on a single charge with moderate usage. I actually never even pay attention to my battery level on the 1520, where on the 1020 it's something I have to keep track of.
I'll also mention that the optical image stabilization on the 1520 is sooo much better than the 1020. I have shaky hands and I have way less of a problem with blur in night time shots with the 1520. Also, my hand held videos look like they're on a tripod with the 1520.
A consideration you should make, however, is that the 1520 is NOT great at night time photos or video compared to the 1020. Much more noise. Day time shots are comparable. I've actually tested both side by side, and the differences in day time shots were BARELY noticeable. In fact, a few shots were better on the 1520. Overall though, the camera is, no surprise, better on the 1020. Although, the difference isn't as great as the numbers would seem to indicate.
EDIT: sorry i keep adding to this. Also, the flash on the 1020 crushes the one on the 1520. Much more natural shots with the 1520. The flash washes out some colors on the 1520.